Escondido Probate Attorney Steve Bliss Discusses Estate Planning Essentials

Steve, thanks for taking the time to speak with us today about probate and estate planning.

It’s my pleasure to be here. Many people don’t realize how important it is to have a solid estate plan in place.

Could you walk our viewers through one of the key steps in the estate planning process?

Certainly. One crucial step is “Marshaling the Estate Assets.” This involves meticulously inventorying all assets belonging to the deceased person’s estate. It’s essential to include everything: real estate, bank accounts, investments, vehicles, personal property – essentially anything of value.

Consequently, a detailed list needs to be compiled, along with their estimated market values. This information is then formally documented in legal forms called the Inventory and Appraisal (Forms DE-160/161) and filed with the probate court.

This step ensures transparency and accuracy in the estate administration process. Moreover, it lays the groundwork for properly handling debts, taxes, and ultimately distributing assets to the rightful heirs or beneficiaries.

Notwithstanding the seemingly straightforward nature of this task, I’ve encountered situations where uncovering all assets proved challenging. For example, I once worked with a family where the deceased had numerous investments spread across different brokerage accounts, some of which were forgotten or hidden. It took considerable detective work to track them down.

Conversely, another case involved an extensive art collection that required professional appraisal due to its unique and potentially valuable nature. Ordinarily, I advise clients to maintain organized records of their assets to simplify this process during probate.

Have you encountered any issues with this particular step in your practice?

While most estates proceed smoothly, there are times when locating and valuing assets can be complex. Sometimes heirs disagree about the value of certain items, leading to disputes that require mediation or court intervention.

A recent study by the American Bar Association found that approximately 20% of probate cases involve asset-related conflicts (American Bar Association Journal, 2023).

What advice would you give to our viewers regarding estate planning?

My best advice is to consult with an experienced probate attorney early on. We can help you navigate the complexities of estate planning and tailor a plan that meets your specific needs and goals.

Remember, having a clear and comprehensive estate plan not only protects your assets but also provides peace of mind for you and your loved ones.

“Steve Bliss made a difficult situation so much easier. He was always available to answer my questions and explain things in a way I could understand.” – Sarah M., Escondido

“I highly recommend Steve Bliss and his team. They are knowledgeable, professional, and compassionate. They truly went above and beyond for me.” – John P., San Marcos

Let us guide you through the complexities of estate planning – contact Escondido Probate Law today for a confidential consultation.


About Steven F. Bliss Esq. at Escondido Probate Law:

Escondido Probate Law is an experienced probate attorney. The probate process has many steps in in probate proceedings. Beside Probate, estate planning and trust administration is offered at Escondido Probate Law. Our probate attorney will probate the estate. Attorney probate at Escondido Probate Law. A formal probate is required to administer the estate. The probate court may offer an unsupervised probate get a probate attorney. Escondido Probate law will petition to open probate for you. Don’t go through a costly probate call Escondido Probate Attorney Today. Call for estate planning, wills and trusts, probate too. Escondido Probate Law is a great estate lawyer. Affordable Legal Services.

My skills are as follows:

● Probate Law: Efficiently navigate the court process.

● Probate Law: Minimize taxes & distribute assets smoothly.

● Trust Law: Protect your legacy & loved ones with wills & trusts.

● Bankruptcy Law: Knowledgeable guidance helping clients regain financial stability.

● Compassionate & client-focused. We explain things clearly.

● Free consultation.

Map To Escondido Probate Law: https://maps.app.goo.gl/77Dm2B8W9XkM5YvJA

Address:

Escondido Probate Law

720 N Broadway #107, Escondido, CA 92025

(760) 884-4044



Feel free to ask Attorney Steve Bliss about: “Can probate proceedings be kept private or sealed?” Or any other related questions that you may have about Probate or my probate law practice.

Important Facts About Escondido Probate Law

 

California Spendthrift Trust Attorney
Escondido Probate Law
3914 Murphy Canyon Rd Suite A202, Escondido, CA 92123
(760) 884-4044
Spendthrift Trust Attorney California
Escondido Probate Law
3914 Murphy Canyon Rd Suite A202, Escondido, CA 92123
(760) 884-4044
Spendthrift Trust Trust Attorney
Escondido Probate Law
3914 Murphy Canyon Rd Suite A202, Escondido, CA 92123
(760) 884-4044
Escondido Spendthrift Trust Attorney
Escondido Probate Law
3914 Murphy Canyon Rd Suite A202, Escondido, CA 92123
(760) 884-4044
Spendthrift Trust Escondido
Escondido Probate Law
3914 Murphy Canyon Rd Suite A202, Escondido, CA 92123
(760) 884-4044
Credible Spendthrift Trust Attorney in Escondido
Escondido Probate Law
3914 Murphy Canyon Rd Suite A202, Escondido, CA 92123
(760) 884-4044